How To Find 32-Bit Apps On Your iPhone

Desktop users know that computer architecture is either 32-bit or 64-bit. While the concept itself is somewhat complicated, users only need to know whether their system is 32-bit or 64-bit. They then have to make sure the apps they use are built for their system. Windows users often have to be mindful of this while Apple users aren’t bogged down by this much. That’s going to change soon because iOS 11 will no longer support the 32-bit architecture. This means apps that were built for the 32-bit architecture will no longer work once you upgrade your phone or tablet to iOS 11. The stable release of iOS 11 is just months away so it’s a good idea to figure out which of your apps need to be replaced and find an alternative. Here’s how you can find 32-bit apps on your iPhone or iPad.

Open the Settings app and go to General>About. Tap ‘Applications’. This will take you to the App Compatibility screen. On iOS 10, this screen shows apps that will slow down your device. These are in fact 32-bit apps that haven’t been updated in ages. Some of them might no longer be available in the App Store. On iOS 10, you might still be able to use some of these apps but they will be slow. Come iOS 11, they will not work period.

Before you delete these app, check if there’s an update available for them. Check the developer’s or the app’s support page to see if they plan on updating the app. If not and you still aren’t ready to part with an app wait until iOS 11 is released to the stable channel. It is possible that some developers will update their apps at the last minute given they’re being pushed against a wall to do so.

When iOS 11 lands, 32-bit iOS apps will cease to exist. Any 32-bit apps that can still be downloaded from the App Store e.g. Infinity Blade I will either be removed or the download button will be inactive. You will also see a message on the app’s page stating it hasn’t been updated for iOS 11 just yet.

We’re not sure what kind of deadline these apps have. Apple is obviously serious about booting 32-bit apps from the App Store. It wants apps on the iPhone and iPad to run well. The hardware on these devices improves every year so the apps need to catch up. If users experience slow apps simply because the app is 32-bit, they might attribute it to a slow iPhone which isn’t great if you want users to upgrade every year. Of course it’s not just about PR. The iPhone and the iPad have some of the best hardware in the market today. Unsuspecting users shouldn’t be dragged down by out-dated apps that developers are ignoring.